A petite, private venue dedicated to the iconic Parisian chanteuse, Musée Edith Piaf is a tucked-away gem of a museum. Situated in Paris’ Ménilmontant neighborhood in a 4th-floor apartment where Piaf once resided, it’s brimming with her personal mementos, and is a must-visit for fans.
Founded by Bernard Marchois—a former friend of Piaf’s—the Musée Edith Piaf is one of Paris’ most unusual museums. Housed in Piaf’s former apartment, the museum is adjacent to Marchois’ own residence. It is squarely aimed at fans of the iconic singer; in addition to photographs, accessories, records, and boxing gloves owned by Piaf’s lover (Marcel Cerdan, considered to be France’s greatest boxer), her famous black dresses are a highlight of the museum’s small but meaningful collection.
The Musée Edith Piaf’s location near to other Paris highlights (including Père Lachaise cemetery and the Canal Saint-Martin) makes it an easy stop during a day of sightseeing.
The museum is free to enter, but visitors can only go with an advance appointment.
Museum tours are conducted mainly in French.
Museum founder Bernard Marchois has written and contributed to several books about Edith Piaf, and he is an authority on the singer’s life.
Located in Ménilmontant, on the border of the 11th and 20th arrondissements, the Musée Edith Piaf can be accessed via numerous forms of public transportation. Take Metro Line 2 to the Ménilmontant station; take Lines 1, 2, 6, and 9 or the RER A to Nation station; or travel by bus Line 96. The museum can also be reached by Vélib’ bike, by car or taxi, or on foot.
The museum is open by appointment only, October through May, Monday to Wednesday, from 1pm to 6pm. Send a request in advance of your trip to make sure you secure an appointment.
The Musée Edith Piaf is a short stroll from Père Lachaise, Paris’ largest cemetery and the final resting place of the Little Sparrow, as Piaf was known to her fans. Curious visitors can combine a museum visit with a trip to her grave site to pay their respects.
